May 25, 2009

Dear Sir,

The increase in gun violence is an example of how the Police Service is unfortunately in over their heads. This is through no fault of the Police officers. Their training is for an earlier time which is no longer the norm in Bermuda.

A trained and dedicated gang unit should be in place to combat the violence. There should be a database which tracks all gang members and their activity. The government must proactively get in front of this problem and address this situation aggressively.

The time for a SWAT Team has already passed. This programme should have been put in place at the first uptick in violent crime. Stopping drugs and guns at the airport and at sea is a daunting challenge. Bermuda has no Coast Guard or anything in place to stop vessels from transporting narcotics or drugs into the country. These measures are expensive but will be cost effective in the long run. The US has thousands of experienced retired law enforcement officers which would be an invaluable service to utilise.

SCOTT R. NICHOLLS

Staten Island, New York